Posted October 10, 2026

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez released the following statement October 10 on the death of Officer Shane Seiber who was fatally shot in the line of duty earlier that morning.

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I was deeply saddened to learn that Officer Shane Seiber of the Philadelphia Police department was shot and killed while serving our city in the line of duty early this morning.

On behalf of the bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, I extend prayerful condolences to Officer Seiber’s widow, his young children, his other family members, and many friends as they mourn his tragic and untimely death.

Our heartfelt sympathy also goes out to Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and the faithful men and women of the Philadelphia Police Department as they cope with the death of a brother in blue who embodied the department’s motto of honor, integrity, and service for the past decade.

I have asked all people in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia to join me in praying for the happy repose of Officer Seiber’s soul and that God may bring peace and consolation to all those suffering at this painful moment. May the Lord pour His mercy upon them and hold them in His loving embrace. In addition, I ask all people of goodwill to join me in fervently praying for the swift recovery of the officer who was severely wounded alongside Officer Seiber today.

Dark moments like this one are a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need to turn to God. May we follow his will, seek the conversion of heart of those who would do violence, and work as one family to overcome the many challenges facing our society.

We owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to all of the first responders who put their lives on the line to protect us each day. May God watch over and protect them.

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia